12/9/11

More First's

The trainings, Instructors Of Teachers II and Teaching Children Effectively II, completed, the teens and I stood staring at all the tables we had just maneuvered down the twisting staircase of the three story training location. Now to get the tables back to Pastor D's house, preferably in a timely fashion. The boys began hoisting the tables up and placing them on the girl's heads. Remembering back to 2006 and the attempt at trying to carry water on my head (which was a complete and hylarious failure), I decided it was time to try again. Hestitantly and with laughter, Tojo lifted up a table and placed it on my head. To my great surprise, and the surprise of everyone around, I was able to get to Pastor D's without even so much as a close call. I think you could almost use the word graceful. :)
Bright and early the next morning the CEF of Madagascar staff conference began. Staff conferences in WA had always been fun and I was hoping this one would turn out the same. About 30 CEF staff from all over the country were there (all Malagasy except one couple from South Africa). For two days, from 8 in the morning until 8 at night the meetings continued. Sitting and listening to Malagasy all day was a great opportunity for listening practice. I was surprised how much I was able to follow. Pastor D gave me the opportunity to share about CYIA. The staff seemed excited to see CYIA come here. I most enjoyed getting to know all the staff and the opportunity to practice my Malagasy with new people. They teased me endlessly when my fear of large cockroaches became known. I even got to participate in my first Malagasy skit. Thankfully, my group was assigned the story of Lazarus. It was unanomously decided that I should be Lazarus who was dead most of the time, didn't have any lines, and only had to come out of the grave when called. :)
As I continue learning the language and the culture, I am thankful for each new adventure. Thank you for praying for me!